Since the resident's family arrived in Bluff some three decades or more ago, the town was vastly different.

Bluff State School was thriving with 144 kids at the school. Today, there are 16.

The resident, while concerned for the workers awaiting their fate, said the town will kick on and survive.

An Aurizon spokesperson said they "appreciate the changes to its operations are difficult for those affected".

"We have engaged with community leaders and stakeholders on the changes, and confirmed that Aurizon will continue to have a presence in the Bluff community," the spokesperson said.

"Following the proposed changes, we will still employ more than 2,000 people across Central Queensland (Gladstone to Mackay and west). Aurizon will work closely with individuals as the phased changes are implemented through to mid-2018."